Aironet Lan Adapter - Manual (Page 21)

Welcome to the Aironet 4000 Series Wireless LAN Adapter
1-7
Here are some operating and environmental conditions that
need to be considered:
• Data Rates. Sensitivity and range are inversely propor-
tional to data bit rates. The maximum radio range is
achieved at the lowest workable data rate. There will be
a decrease in receiver threshold sensitivity as the radio
data rate increases.
• Antenna Type and Placement. Proper antenna config-
uration is a critical factor in maximizing radio range. As
a general guide, range increases in proportion to
antenna height.
For a detailed explanation of antenna types and config-
urations along with guidelines on selecting antennas for
specific environments, see the Aironet Antenna Guide,
document number 710-003725.
• Physical Environments. Clear or open areas provide
better radio range than closed or filled areas. Also, the
less cluttered the work environment, the greater the
range.
• Obstructions. A physical obstruction such as metal
shelving or a steel pillar can hinder the performance of
the PC Card, particularly when using the small Snap-
On antenna. Avoid locating the computing device and
antenna in a location where there is a metal barrier
between the sending and receiving antennas.
• Building Materials. Radio penetration is greatly influ-
enced by the building material used in construction. For
example, drywall construction allows greater range than
concrete blocks. Metal or steel construction is a barrier
to radio signals.